Paper Cages

Paper Cages Overview

What is Paper Cages?

Paper Cages is a poignant and unsettling game created for Spelkollektivet's 2019 Halloween Game Jam, where it was designed to delve into the theme of horror with a focus on personal struggles. This game provides a unique exploration of mental health issues through a narrative that mirrors the monotony and internal battles of daily life.

In Paper Cages, players are immersed in a repetitive daily routine that starkly contrasts with the internal horror experienced by the protagonist. The game tackles deep and often painful themes including depression, anxiety, self-loathing, dysphoria, and eating disorders, using the mundane aspects of daily life to highlight the inner turmoil and existential dread. The chosen themes of Personal and Archenemy reflect the intimate and adversarial nature of mental health struggles, presenting a raw and reflective experience.

How to Play

1. Navigate Daily Routine:

The gameplay revolves around the protagonist's daily routine: waking up, getting dressed, brushing teeth, eating breakfast, and going to work. Use your mouse and keyboard (with the Z key) to interact with different aspects of the routine.

2. Interact with Objects:

As you progress through the routine, you’ll interact with various objects that represent different facets of the protagonist’s life and mental state. Click with the mouse to make choices and navigate through these interactions.

3. Observe and Reflect:

Pay close attention to the subtle changes and visual cues within the game. These will help you understand the deeper emotional and psychological context of the protagonist’s experiences.

4. Experience the Themes:

The game is designed to be a reflective experience rather than a traditional horror game. Be prepared for an emotional journey that delves into themes of mental health and self-perception.

5. Manage Your Inputs:

You only need a mouse and a keyboard with the Z key to play. The controls are simple, but the impact of the game’s content is profound.

  Paper Cages offers a powerful and introspective take on the horror genre by incorporating real-world issues into its gameplay. It challenges players to confront the silent battles that many face daily, making it both a unique and thought-provoking experience.